The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way industry’s function, and academics is no exception. Online education has become a norm today since most institutions have had to close down in an effort to reduce the spread of the virus. This new form of studying and teaching has called for various adjustments on the part of everyone involved.
To make online studying effective and convenient, one cannot do without a reliable internet connection. While the need for a good speed internet was always present, it has increased tenfold owing to people being quarantined.
There are many well-known internet service providers in the market; from Cox internet packages to Spectrum bundles and from Xfinity Internet to AT&T internet, the options are plenty. In such a scenario, it’s important to choose the best and most suitable internet for your studying needs. You can click here to get the best internet deals at the best possible prices.
How to Choose an Internet Service Provider?
A reliable internet connection is non-negotiable for students. After all, you don’t want the net doing down when you’re about to submit an assignment that’ll make up for 50% of your grade. Most of the customers feel that DSL and cable are equal in terms of reliability. However, it has been observed that cable internet speed may go down during peak usage hours.
The best way to find out about the quality of the internet is through people within your circle who use it. Get reviews about the reliability of an internet service provider from your family and friends. Also, check about how well its signals are at your location; this can be done by asking your neighbors. You should always go for an internet service provider who has received positive reviews from people you trust. Another way to verify the quality of service is to check their ratings and reviews on unbiased websites (Broadband Search, etc).
What Are Your Internet Needs?
You should not just grab on to any deal or service that you’ve heard is good enough. It’s important to identify your needs as an internet user, otherwise, you’ll end up wasting money on offers that may not be suitable for you. Do you only need the web for light searching and submitting assignments? Or are you required to stream lectures and take entire courses online? These are questions you must take into account before deciding to subscribe to an internet connection. If you’re a light user, you can do away with inexpensive plans with data caps. On the other hand, heavy users must opt for unlimited packages.
Internet Connection Options for Students
As a student, you can choose from a variety of internet providers based on your location and studying requirements.
1. Cable
If you have cable TV in your area, cable internet would be a good choice. Check if your university has a deal with a specific service provider so you can get a student discount. The only drawback of cable internet is that it ‘may’ go down during peak hours.
2. DSL
DSL is a cheap form of broadband internet. But the quality of its service depends on the distance between you and the provider’s hub. The closer you are to the provider’s office, the better its signals.
3. Fiber
This is a fast and reliable internet connection but it is not available in a lot of locations. If your university has it then it may be available in your neighborhood.
4. Satellite
If your school/college is very far away then satellite internet is the answer for you. It should work well for you unless you download or play a lot of games on it (in which case you may notice a bit of a lag).
Best Internets & Their Offerings in 2024
Due to the pandemic, internet providers are doing something unprecedented for student users in 2024. Let’s have a look at what they have to offer.
1. AT&T
AT&T is collaborating with K-12 schools and colleges to provide free wireless data for a period of two months through school-issued hotspot devices and 4G LTE tablets. Most households who do not have broadband internet service would be within the reach of these cellular signals. AT&T is available in 21 US states, with its most expansive coverage in Texas, Florida and California.
2. Xfinity
Xfinity is the largest cable internet provider in the US; its presence is spread across 39 states. Among its most serviced cities are Houston, Denver, Philadelphia and Chicago. Xfinity has come up with a great offer for new university student customers. It is offering new customers a gift card worth $150 (which approximately every two months of internet service). Besides, the package has no upfront fee and free self-installation. All you need to do to participate in this offer is to upload documents that verify you are a student. Also, you must be a new customer.
3. Spectrum
Spectrum internet is available in 41US states. Its most serviced cities include Los Angeles, San Antonio, Saint Louis, New York and Dallas. It is offering a very attractive deal: free broadband and Wi-Fi for 60 days to households with students (K-12 and college) who don’t already have the service. It has also waived off installation and pre-payment fees. The offer applies to new customers only.
4. Cox
Cox internet is used in 19 US states, with strong coverage in California, Virginia and Arizona. It is offering a discounted package for starters ($20 for 50 Mbps per month). Families with K-12 children who are eligible for SNAP, TANF and National School Lunch Program are eligible to avail this deal.